Main content

Sleepless in Seoul

Korea is one of the most tired nations on earth, people work longer and sleep fewer hours than almost anywhere else. As a result combating sleeplessness has become big business.

Korea is one of the most stressed and tired nations on earth, a place where people work and study longer hours than anywhere else. And statistics show they are finding it increasingly difficult to switch off and relax; they sleep fewer hours and have higher rates of depression and suicide than almost anywhere else.
And as a result sleeplessness and stress has become big business in Korea; from sleep clinics where doctors assess people overnight, to ‘sleep cafes’ offering naps in the middle of the working day, to relaxation drinks. Even Buddhism is moving in on the action with temple retreats and monk-led apps to help stressed out Koreans to relax. There is a lot of money to be made but some Koreans have become worried that in trying to sell religion to the next generation, some faith leaders might be losing touch with Buddhist principles themselves. For Crossing Continents Se-Woong Koo reports from Seoul on a nation that’s wired on staying awake.

Producer, Chloe Hadjimatheou.

Available now

28 minutes

Last on

Mon 19 Sep 2022 20:30

Broadcasts

  • Thu 2 Dec 2021 11:00
  • Mon 6 Dec 2021 20:30
  • Thu 15 Sep 2022 11:00
  • Mon 19 Sep 2022 20:30

Podcast